REVEALED: Ship that struck Baltimore bridge was involved in 2016 crash, had ‘deficiencies’

While the Dali sustained damage as a result of the impact, it remained afloat. The bridge, on the other hand, crumbled into the Patapsco River, bringing vehicles and people with it. Search and rescue operations were still underway late into the day, though only two people were recovered, both directly after the crash. One was in critical condition while the other declined medical services.

According to USA Today, as the Dali was leaving the port of Antwerp in Belgium in 2016, it struck a stone loading pier and suffered damage to its stern. Following an investigation, it was determined that a mistake made by the master pilot had led to the incident.

As CNN reports, the ensuing inspection in Antwerp came back citing a "deficiency" for "structural conditions," namely "hull damage impairing seaworthiness."

During an inspection in San Antonio, Chile in June 2023, the Dali's second "deficiency" was recorded, this time for its "propulsion and auxiliary machinery — gauges, thermometers, etc."

The vessel, owned by Singaporean company Grace Ocean Pte Ltd and managed by Synergy Marine Group, was last inspected by crews in New York City on September 9, 2023. At that time, no issues were reported.

Prior to Tuesday's collision, the ship's power appeared to fail, with the crew issuing a mayday reporting that they "lost control."

"The vessel notified MD Department of Transportation that they had lost control of the vessel and an allision with the bridge was possible," Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said during a press conference,

An investigation has been launched, and search efforts are underway to recover any survivors of the collapse. All commercial marine traffic at the shipping terminal has ceased, with numerous vessels stuck waiting to enter and exit the port.